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The Ebola outbreak has had many far-reaching effects on travelers around the world. What’s worse, the epidemic will have even more potential effects in the future that are hard to fathom today. Even if you purchase travel insurance, will it cover you if you are exposed to Ebola or other epidemic diseases?
As a result of the Ebola crisis, many travel insurance providers have been very particular about what is covereed in their travel insurance, what isn’t, and how Ebola is directly affecting their level of coverage.
As you consider traveling with an insurance policy, consider these three situations that could affect you down the road.
Ebola may not necessarily be covered by travel insurance plans
With the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control announcements of an epidemic, travel insurance providers are being very cautious with how to approach the travel insurance policies. With the risk of transmission high in affected regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan, coverage for Ebola on new travel insurance policies may be severely limited.
If you purchased your travel insurance policy before the epidemic announcements, your travel insurance policy may still offer the full amount of coverage at the levels you purchased. Because your purchase was made before Ebola became a “known event,” many levels of coverage will still be in effect. Be sure to check with your travel insurance provider about any questions you may have before you start traveling.
For those who have purchased travel insurance as a result of the Ebola outbreak, be sure you understand what situations are covered by your policy.
Because of the epidemic announcement, some travel insurance providers are changing their policies as a result of the situation. The responses range from not offering coverage in the affected countries to limiting the emergency transportation benefits in those countries. Before you travel, make sure you understand what your travel insurance policy will and won’t cover.
Ebola may not count as a qualifying event for certain travel insurance benefits
Many travelers agree that the Ebola epidemic is frightening and unpredictable, to the extent of wanting to change their trip plans as a result. With cases of Ebola popping up around the world, it can be very tempting to cancel or move your travels. But will your travel carrier or insurance provider let you and still allow you to recover your costs?
Though travel insurance providers are limiting some of their coverage limits for new policies as it pertains to Ebola, many are staying steady to their definitions of qualifying events for trip cancellation. Unless your travel insurance policy specifically allows for cancellation due to a pandemic announcement, you may not be able to use your travel insurance to cancel your trip. And if your travel insurance allows you to cancel, it may be limited to affected countries only. Be sure to ask your travel insurance provider any questions you may have about your trip cancellation policies.
What about tour operators and carriers? Tour operators and common carriers are making their own decisions about when to cancel trips, and when to continue their travels. While some carriers are still flying to affected parts of Africa, other air carriers are canceling planned trips to the nations. This affects travelers directly because these policies may not allow travelers to dictate their cancellation plans. If you have any concerns about your travel and well-being, contact your tour operator or travel provider with any questions you may have.
Special travel insurance plans available specifically for Ebola
Because of the viral nature of Ebola, some travel insurance providers are creating special travel insurance policies to protect travelers against the threat of Ebola to begin with. Insure My Trip, for instance, created a policy that allows for trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits for CDC announcements on Ebola and other epidemic diseases. These highly specialized policies allow for travelers to make their own decisions when it comes to traveling and the amount of risk they want to be exposed to when it comes to Ebola.
Though the policy mentioned above is the first of its kind, more travel insurance providers may extend policies that are specific to an outbreak of disease. If your travel plans will take you through a part of the world that is at a higher risk of disease, be sure you understand if an epidemic announcement is one of the covered reasons for cancellation, or if your insurance policy offers coverage in case of interruption due to a pandemic.
Every insurance policy is different, just as every situation presents a new challenge. Before you make any final decisions, make sure you consult your travel insurance provider with any questions you may have about how Ebola affects your travel plans and policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does travel insurance usually cover Ebola, related cancellations?
Some travel insurance plans may cover cancellations linked to Ebola. It depends on the reason for canceling your trip. If the outbreak becomes serious after you booked, you may get some coverage. Many insurers also look at government travel warnings. Always read the policy details before traveling.
Will travel insurance cover medical treatment for Ebola?
Some policies can help pay for emergency medical care abroad. This may include hospital treatment and doctor visits. However, not every policy covers epidemic diseases. Some insurers add special exclusions for outbreaks like Ebola. It is important to check medical coverage before your trip.
Can I cancel my trip because I feel unsafe traveling?
Feeling worried alone may not always qualify for reimbursement. Most insurers require an official reason for cancellation. A government warning or doctor’s advice may help support your claim. “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage offers more flexibility. This type of coverage usually costs extra.
Does travel insurance include emergency evacuation during an Ebola outbreak?
Many travel insurance plans include emergency evacuation services. This can help if you need transport to a safer hospital or another country. Evacuation coverage is very important for remote travel in Africa. Some plans also offer 24 -hour emergency assistance. Check the evacuation limits before buying the policy.
How can travelers choose the right insurance during an Ebola outbreak?
Travelers should compare policies carefully before booking. Look for coverage for epidemics, medical care, and trip cancellation. Read the exclusions and emergency assistance details. It is also good to choose a trusted insurance company. Good insurance can give peace of mind while traveling.
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